Watches are crafted all around the world, but some countries stand out for their quality and innovation. Japan is one of these leaders in watchmaking. Japanese watch brands have been perfecting their craft since the late 19th century, blending cutting-edge technology with meticulous design. Today, Japanese watches are among the world’s most beloved timepieces. These watches not only showcase exceptional craftsmanship but also reflect Japan's cultural and environmental aesthetics.

We've put together a list of our favourite Japanese watch brands and their standout models. Whether you're looking for a classic Japanese watch or exploring different Japanese watch brands, you'll find something that fits your style.

Citizen, originally the Shokosha Watch Research Institute in 1918, got its current name after Japanese and Swiss investors took over. In the 1970s, Citizen and Seiko shook up the market with affordable and accurate quartz watches. Citizen pushed the envelope further in 1976 with the world’s first solar-powered analog quartz watch, leading to their Eco-Drive technology, which powers many of their watches today.

Quartz technology is central to Citizen's success. In 2019, they launched the Eco-Drive Caliber 0100, with a quartz movement accurate to an impressive +/-1 second per year, claiming it to be the most accurate watch ever made. Citizen also produces movements for other brands through its Miyota group, with models like the 8215 and 9016 being popular among microbrand enthusiasts, rivaling Switzerland's ETA-2824 and Sellita SW200.

Citizen’s parent group has expanded through key acquisitions, enhancing its production and offerings. They acquired Bulova in 2007 and Manufacture La Joux-Perret, along with its high-horology brand Arnold & Son, in 2012. These strategic moves have strengthened Citizen's position as a leader in the watch industry, driving innovation and quality.

Seiko is a name that stands out in Japanese watchmaking. Founded in 1881 by Kintaro Hattori, Seiko began by selling and repairing watches and clocks. Within 11 years, Hattori started producing clocks and pocket watches, and in 1913, Seiko launched Japan’s first wristwatch. The 1960s marked a period of rapid growth for the company. During this time, Seiko introduced the first Grand Seiko watch, Japan’s first dive watch, and gained international recognition by outperforming Swiss brands at the Neuchâtel Observatory Competition. In 1969, Seiko made history again with the launch of one of the first self-winding chronograph watches and the world’s first quartz watch, the Astron. Quartz watches, as we know, became a game-changer in the industry.

Today, Seiko is one of the few watchmakers that is fully vertically integrated, producing all components in-house, including cases, dials, crystals, and all movement parts. Seiko even grows its own quartz crystals for its quartz watches. This capability allows Seiko to offer a wide range of watches, particularly excelling in the entry- to mid-level market. While Seiko is well-known for its affordable dive watches, one of its most significant achievements is the Spring Drive movement. The Spring Drive is a hybrid electro-mechanical movement combining a mechanical gear train with an electronic regulator. It is notable for its smooth gliding seconds hand and outstanding accuracy of +1/-1 second per day, making it one of the most impressive watch calibres available today, straight from Japan.

Grand Seiko, an extension of the Seiko brand founded by Kintaro Hattori, has a rich and monumental history. As Japan emerged from isolation in the late 19th century, it adopted the Western format of timekeeping. Seiko was born from this period of innovation and technological advancement.

The first Grand Seiko was introduced on December 18, 1960, marking its 63rd anniversary soon. In 2017, Grand Seiko became an independent brand with its own leadership, design, and production. As a result, post-2017 Grand Seiko watches feature only the Grand Seiko logo at 12 o’clock, with no Seiko logo. Today, Grand Seiko is renowned for its exceptional value and craftsmanship. The cases boast the signature Zaratsu polish, achieved by skilled artisans pressing the case against a rotating tin plate. The dials are equally impressive, featuring intricate textures and elegantly finished indices and hands, widely regarded as some of the best in the industry.

Investing in a Japanese watch means owning a piece of technological innovation and craftsmanship. With their focus on precision, advanced technology, and exceptional value, Japanese watches are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a luxury timepiece. Whether you are interested in the latest solar-powered models or beautifully crafted mechanical watches, Japanese brands have something to offer for every discerning customer.